Sri Lanka Highlights Tour - Culture, Nature & Wildlife

Arrival: Upon arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport and after baggage claim, you will be met and greeted by your chauffeur guide who will accompany you throughout your holiday in Sri Lanka.

Transfer: Thereafter, proceed to Negombo (approx. travel time: 15 to 25 mins).

Leisure: Arrive in Negombo, a charming coastal town just north of Colombo, and check in to your hotel to unwind after your journey. Spend the rest of the day at leisure—whether it's enjoying a peaceful walk along the beach, indulging in fresh seafood, or simply resting by the pool. It is the perfect way to recover from your flight and ease into the rhythm of Sri Lanka.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Negombo.

Morning: After breakfast, begin your journey inland to Habarana (approx. travel time: 3 hrs & 15 mins), a peaceful central town ideal for exploring Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.

Highlight: En route, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located on the banks of the Maha Oya River. Established in 1975, this sanctuary is home to one of the largest herds of captive elephants in the world and provides care for those orphaned or injured in the wild. You can observe them roaming freely and even watch them bathe in the river - a truly heartwarming and memorable experience.

Evening: Arrive in Habarana by late afternoon and check in to your hotel. The evening is free to relax or enjoy the hotel's natural surroundings.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Habarana.

Morning: After breakfast, visit the mystical Ritigala Forest Monastery, an ancient and lesser-visited archaeological site surrounded by deep jungle.

Afternoon: Head to Minneriya National Park for an exciting wildlife jeep safari. This park is famous for its annual "Elephant Gathering", a spectacular natural event where hundreds of Asian elephants congregate during the dry season—considered one of the largest wildlife gatherings in the world.

Evening: After the safari, return to your hotel in Habarana for dinner and a well-earned rest.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Habarana.

Morning: After breakfast, check out and begin your journey toward Kandy (approx. travel time: 3 hrs), the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.

Sightseeing En Route:

• The Dambulla Cave Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring beautiful cave paintings and centuries-old Buddha statues.

• Spice Garden in Matale: Where you can learn about Sri Lanka's famous herbal and Ayurvedic traditions.

Evening: Arrive in Kandy by late afternoon. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure—perhaps take a short walk around the scenic Kandy Lake or simply relax.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Kandy.

Morning: Start the day with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka's most important religious sites. Afterwards, enjoy a short city tour of Kandy, passing by the lake, the local market, and other cultural highlights.

Afternoon: After lunch, begin your scenic journey toward Nuwara Eliya (approx. travel time: 2 hrs & 15 mins), traveling through the central highlands.

Highlights En Route:

• Stop at Ramboda Falls, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall nestled among the hills.

• Visit a Tea Plantation and Factory, where you can learn about Sri Lanka's world-famous Ceylon tea and see the tea-making process from leaf to cup—with a chance to taste fresh brews.

Arrival: Continue the drive through misty mountains and rolling tea fields before arriving in Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England" for its colonial charm, cool climate, and picturesque landscapes.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Morning: After breakfast, set out early for Horton Plains National Park, located about an hour and a half from Nuwara Eliya. Embark on a scenic nature walk through montane grasslands and cloud forests, leading to breathtaking viewpoints such as World's End and Baker's Falls. The hike is approximately 7-8 km round trip and offers stunning landscapes and unique wildlife encounters.

Afternoon: Return to Nuwara Eliya for a relaxing city tour. Visit charming landmarks like Gregory Lake, Victoria Park, the historic Post Office, and optionally, the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the local market or admire the quaint English-style architecture.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Morning: After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your journey from the cool hills of Nuwara Eliya to the bustling city of Colombo (approx. travel time: 4 hrs & 50 mins).

Adventure: On the way, stop at Kitulgala, a lush rainforest region famed for adventure activities. Here, you will experience an exciting session of White Water Rafting on the Kelani River, surrounded by stunning jungle scenery. The river offers a mix of thrilling rapids and calmer stretches—perfect for both beginners and those with experience. If time allows, you can also explore nearby waterfalls or enjoy a riverside lunch.

Evening: After your adventure, continue your drive to Colombo, arriving by evening. Check in to your hotel and relax after a day full of action and travel.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Colombo.

Morning: After breakfast and a leisurely morning, it is time to check out from your hotel and head to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight.

Optional: Depending on your flight time, you may have the chance for some last-minute shopping or a short walk along Galle Face Green to take in one last view of the Indian Ocean.

Departure: With unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka's beaches, mountains, heritage sites, and wildlife, you depart with a heart full of stories and a camera full of moments.